ABSTRACT
Objective To investigate the effect of the extracts of Centella asiatica(L.) Urban (ECA) on the depressive-like behavior alteration in rats and mice. Method 60 Wistar rats were randomly divided into 6 groups (10 rats each), the normal group, model group, Fluoxetine group, ECA high dose group (component 10.08 mg+component 24.48 mg/kg), ECA middle dose group (component 1 0.04 mg+component 2 2.24 mg/kg) and ECA low dose group component 1 0.02 mg+component 2 1.12 mg/kg. Chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) induced depression in rats and sugar consumption to detect the antidepressant effect of ECU. 60 Kunming mice were randomly divided into six groups as above. Locomotor activity, forced swim, tail suspension test were used to detect the effect of ECA on the behavioral alteration in mice. Results Compared with model group, sugar consumption in ECA groups was significant increased (P<0.01). ECA treatments also decreased duration of immobility in the tail suspension test and forced swim. Conclusion ECA could improve the depressive-like behavior in rats and mice.